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The Retro-Computing Society |
The Retro-Computing Society of Rhode Island, Inc. exists to further the preservation of historic computers and to increase the awareness of the history of computers and their development. One of our primary goals is to restore historical systems to operational condition. We currently function as a users' group for those with an interest in vintage computer hardware systems and software.
RCS/RI provide a forum for discussing, and a means for exchanging, information about computer systems and software that is of historic interest. This is done through a mailing list and this WWW site. We meet in person on the third Saturday of each month at our facility in Providence, RI and hold our monthly Open House on that day.
Founded in the autumn of 1994 as an informal association of computer- history enthusiasts, RCS/RI incorporated on 1 January, 1998 under the laws of the State of Rhode Island as a non- profit corporation and is governed by a board of directors.
We lease a 1,500 square- foot space in an old mill complex which serves as our main facility. That location is used for office space, a documentation library and media archive, and a workspace to repair systems and storage for the RCS/RI collection of historic computers. The collection may be viewed by appointment, but please contact us at least a week in advance to make arrangements if you'd like to visit on a day other than the monthly open house.
RCS/RI are based in Providence, RI with individuals from throughout southeastern New England (and a few more distant). While it was decided to start the group locally to encourage meeting in person, all are welcome to participate. There are no dues or membership fees for casual association nor is admission charged to view the collection.
The RCS/RI facility is located in the Atlantic Mills complex at 118 Manton Ave. in the Olneyville section of Providence, RI. Facing the building, go in the left tower, and all the way up to the fourth floor. The RCS is in Suite 411.
Gallery & collection photos by Dave Fischer.